How to Tell the Difference Between Silk & Satin
Silk and satin are both smooth and soft, but they are actually very different products. Silk is natural, and it is made only from cocoons of silk worms. Satin, a man made product, can be produced from combinations of silk, polyester or nylon threads. The common point of them is that they both originated in China and their materials are very versatile.
- Look at the fabrics. Silk has a shimmering appearance. Satin, on the other hand, has a glossy surface.
- Feel the fabric. Satin is more delicate than silk. So when handling it, more care is needed. To pull slightly at the fabric, you will discover that satin moves easily while the silk has very little give.
- Touch the fabric. Silk and satin are both smooth and soft. However, silk feels much smoother than satin. And satin has a slightly rougher feel, though not too much.
Remember, satin can be made of silk. So, it is normal to say that there is a silk in a satin. It is an impure silk material.
Most people recall the disco days of the 70’s when it comes to satin. Stain polyester sheets are shiny, slippery, hot, and synthetic. However, silk is breathable and 100% natural!
Weave
A satin weave is usually shiny and slippery fabric. Satin is most often associated with polyester or poly-blends, and it can be woven from any number of fabrics. For instance, charmeuse weave involves a thread twist which gives it a luxe sheen without being garishly shiny. One side has sheen, and the other side is matte. Charmeuse does not slip around because the twisted threads ‘catch’ each other.
Temperature regulator
A man-made fabric or a blend with a man-made fabric is hot. Our silk is 100% natural, light, soft and very breathable. It can regulate body temperature. Silk can make you feel cool in hot days and warm in cold days. Thus, silk is widely used to for thermal underwear for skiers and hikers. And people who are very hot sleepers including menopausal women love silk products very much.
